Welcome back to our Weekly Digest. Read on for the latest updates and some ideas to help us all move forward.

Regional Victoria Leaves Lockdown

Victorian Premier Daniel Andrews has announced restrictions will ease across regional Victoria, except for Greater Shepparton, from 11:59pm Thursday night.

This means travel will be allowed around Victoria with no distance limit, but movement between Melbourne and the regions is restricted. A maximum of 10 people will be allowed for public outdoor gatherings, and outdoor tours will be capped at 20 people.

Religious gatherings and ceremonies will be capped at 20 people and weddings will be limited to no more than 10 people. In-home visits are still not allowed in regional Victoria, and masks must still be worn indoors and outdoors.

You can find a comprehensive list of the new rules here.

Parts of NSW to Come Out of Lockdown

The Mid and North Coast of NSW, as well as areas across the Riverina, and the Murrumbidgee regions, will all be free from lockdown restrictions on Friday at midnight. Regional travel is set to resume when 70% of the state’s adult population has been fully vaccinated.

All Australian hotspots: COVID-19 Disaster Payment for recognised lockdowns

This Federal Government support is lump sum payment for workers who cannot earn income because of a state public health order. You can check your eligibility here.

NSW Grants

The NSW Government will be offering financial support to businesses or not-for-profit organisations impacted by the recent COVID-19 restrictions and stay-at-home orders.

NSW: Micro-business grant

The micro-business grant is a $1500 fortnightly payment for businesses with a turnover between $30,000 and $75,000.

To check your eligibility and apply, visit the Service NSW website.

COVID-19 Business Grant

A one-off payment to help businesses, sole traders or not-for-profit organisations impacted by the current Greater Sydney COVID-19 restrictions.

Grants between $7,500 and $15,000 are available to eligible businesses depending on the decline in turnover experienced during the restrictions. For eligibility criteria and to apply, visit the Service NSW website.

Thinking of Buying An Investment Property?

Did you know that only around 8% of Australian own at least one investment property? But that doesn’t mean that only this percentage of our aging population could afford to do so. When we go through our clients’ financial documents and prepare their tax return, we know for sure, how many people paying too much tax and missing out by not investing. Some people don’t invest because of lack of knowledge about their own financial situation or the opportunity available to them.  Some people are influenced by the ‘noise’ and fear spread out by the media or perhaps follow other people’s opinion and therefore not investing. Investing in property, be it in residential or commercial is a great way to create more wealth and secure a better retirement.

If you are one of those people who are already  buying an investment property, congratulations! You are on the right path. But is it enough? Does it put you in a financial position so you could have the life style you want in your retirement?

If you are not in the property market or perhaps not buying an investment property for whatever reason, do yourself a favour and give us a call. Let’s do your numbers and make things clear to have a better picture about your future financial plan. You don’t have to buy now but at least you make an informed decision.

While it may be seen as a daunting thing to do, depending on your financial situation and income, buying an investment property could be a lot easier than what many people think. Let’s talk and do your numbers to see if it is something for you.

Today, my wife and I added another property to our property portfolio in this beautiful project (to be built) in Flemington in Melbourne. It is located right next to the race course where the famous Melbourne Cup takes place every year.   We know our numbers and the trusted people whom we buy from, that is why, its very easy and comfortable for us to make decision to act.

 

Quote of the week

“Everything You Want Is On The Other Side Of Fear”

                                                                                                                                                                                                  Jack Canfield

Get in touch

We’re thinking of everyone affected by these ongoing lockdowns around the country and encourage you to get in touch with us if you need any assistance with the Government Support Grants. Please contact Assad SHAHI in our office by sending him an email at assad@countax.com.au. He will get back to you within 48 hours. Please be aware this is an extremely busy time of the year for us.  We appreciate your understanding that it may take us longer to return your calls or reply to your emails. We thank you for your patience. Rest assured that we’re here to help.  

Have a great weekend. Stay safe and be Happy.